title: Developing a variance reporting system to facilitate quality improvement.
abstract: A major challenge of clinical pathway programs is measurement of elements of patient care that affect health outcomes and applying this knowledge to institute systematic improvement. Development of a variance reporting system requires planning, teamwork, and an understanding of the underlying quality process. This article describes a sample approach for using data as part of a comprehensive strategy to reach quality and fiscal goals.
authors.affiliation: Unity Health System, St. Mary's Hospital in Rochester, New York, USA.
authors.forename: S W
authors.initials: SW
authors.lastname: Brown
authors.forename: L S
authors.initials: LS
authors.lastname: Nemeth
mesh_terms: D000704:Analysis of Variance; D019091:Critical Pathways / Q000592:standards*; D003953:Diagnosis-Related Groups; D006801:Humans; D007902:Length of Stay; D010043:Outcome and Process Assessment, Health Care / Q000458:organization & administration*; D019984:Quality Indicators, Health Care; D017749:Total Quality Management / Q000458:organization & administration*